Executive Services Officer


Company:	University of Derby
Salary:	£32,942 to £36,977 a year
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Derby, DE22 1GB
Working pattern:	On-site
Job type:	Contract
Posting date:	23 Oct 2026
Closing date:	8 Nov 2026

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Summary

We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better.

The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region.

We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.

Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.

About the College/Department

The Executive Services team provide professional, executive level assistance and support to members of the University’s Executive Board (“UEB”), the senior leaders of the University. This is a busy yet exciting and diverse team to be a part of, working with colleagues within both the University and externally.

Executive Services is a high-performing and collaborative team committed to delivering an outstanding service, embracing digital innovation and continuously improving how we support executive decision-making and organisational success.

About the Role

This role is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of the University's strategic leadership

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Executive Services Officer to provide professional, confidential support to a member of the University Executive Board (UEB). This is a varied and fast-paced role at the heart of the University's strategic leadership, requiring excellent judgement, discretion and the ability to manage competing priorities in a complex environment.

The role also provides opportunities to lead on improvements to processes and ways of working, contribute to cross-University projects and work collaboratively with colleagues across professional services and academic departments.

Please note that this position is full-time, on a 12 month fixed term contract; based on-site at our Kedleston Road Campus.

The anticipated interview date is 20th November 2026.

About You

We are looking for a skilled professional with experience of supporting senior leaders in a complex organisation. You will be highly organised, able to anticipate needs, manage competing demands and maintain exceptional attention to detail.

You will be comfortable building relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders at all levels, handling sensitive and confidential matters with discretion and professionalism, and responding positively to changing priorities.

Experience of supporting executive-level meetings, producing high-quality materials, drafting Executive papers, providing briefings and coordinating multiple workstreams would be advantageous. Experience within the higher education sector is desirable but not essential.

Benefits

Generous annual leave entitlement of 38 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata)

Local Government Pension Scheme

Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme

Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers

Discounted onsite gym

Cycle to Work scheme

A flexible working environment

A commitment to personal and professional development

Key Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Hannah Hallam, Chief of Staff via h.hallam@derby.ac.uk

For enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk

Important Information

The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.

Please visit our website for more information.

Essential requirements

Essential Criteria Qualifications HND qualification or proven track record of equivalent professional experience GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above or equivalent qualification Experience Proven experience of supporting at an executive level preferably in a large and complex organisation. Experience of handling sensitive situations, recognising confidential issues and dealing with them appropriately and with full discretion. Experience of proactively managing a diverse workload with the ability to meet deadlines, effectively manage own time, prioritise and react swiftly to changes. Experience of working within a high performing team. Experience of producing professional standard minutes and reports. Experience of supervision, the ability to give constructive feedback to promote best practice and create high performance in others. Skills, knowledge and abilities Ability to react positively to frequently changing priorities and deadlines, and deal with unforeseen circumstances. Ability to be able to make operational decisions in line with UEB/ College expectations. Digital literacy and excellent computing skills including Microsoft Office and use of administrative business systems. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to continuously develop effective relationships with individuals and organisations both internally and externally. Excellent attention to detail, including proof reading skills and the ability of maintain a high level of accuracy. Understanding the importance of having up to date sector knowledge and the impact this may have on the day-to-day priorities of both UEB members and the wider University. Ability to foster and be part of a team spirit which engages others to innovate and perform to a high standard. Business Requirements Ability to occasionally undertake late/evening/weekend working when required. Desirable Criteria Qualifications Educated to degree level or equivalent qualification Management/business/customer care qualification. Experience Higher Education sector experience.

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